AN academic study, funded by the Swindon based Economic and Social Research Council, claims that deception is the price of a healthy democracy.

A key conclusion of research carried out by Dr Glen Newey of Strathclyde University, is that political deception is not only inevitable in a democracy, but can also be legitimate when conducted by elected politicians in the public interest.

Dr Newey added: "There has been a lot of concern in recent years about political deception and spin under successive governments. But the more the electorate expects from the politicians they elect, the more likely it is that politicians will be economical with the truth.

"Such deception, where it is in the public interest, may be the price of a healthy democracy."

But his claims were refuted by MP for North Swindon Michael Wills. He said: "I fundamentally disagree with this position. For me transparency is essential for democracy and that is one of the reasons why we will soon see a Freedom of Information act.

"While spin can be used by politicians, it is important that it remains accurate."

Julia Drown, MP for South Swindon also refuted the argument, calling it a bizarre idea.

"People want to be told the situation as it is rather than being deceived."